Physical configuration of a hand-held electronic communication device

ABSTRACT

A hand-held, electronic, bi-directional, wireless electronic communication device having a physical configuration which includes a relatively large, constantly visible display and an alphanumeric keyboard that can be concealed until needed.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/172,675, filed Dec. 20, 1999, titled “Physical Configuration of aHandheld Electronic Communication Device.”

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the physical configuration ofhand-held, electronic devices. In particular, the present inventionrelates to the physical configuration of hand-held, electronic devicescapable of bi-directional, wireless data communication.

2. Background Information

Until now, hand-held, wireless devices have primarily been used forperson-to-person communication by voice, transmitting and receivingvoice data in real-time. These “mobile phone” devices have allowed usersto go wherever they like and still be in touch with their friends andcolleagues just as though they were using a wired phone at home or work.Communication by textual means, such as e-mail, has been performedalmost exclusively over land-based copper and fiber optic phone lines,because the wireless communication networks have simply not had thecapacity or capability to provide cost effective, wireless transmissionof textual data. But recent advancements in wireless technology havemade it possible to provide cost-effective data transfer over existingwireless networks.

The most common means of textual communication has been e-mail, but arelatively new form of messaging called “instant messaging” (IM) hascaught on and has grown very rapidly in popularity in the last severalyears. Unlike e-mail which sits in an electronic mailbox until the userretrieves his or her e-mail messages, IM occurs nearly instantaneously,producing a notification and a dialog box on a user's screen alertingthe user that they have an incoming message. In addition, users have theability to know if the recipient is on-line and available to receive anIM message.

Many hand-held, wireless devices are beginning to provide access toe-mail, but their functionality is currently very limited. The user isusually limited to browsing, that is receiving and reviewing theinformation, not authoring and sending data. Much like retrieving voicemessages from a voice mailbox, the user is only able to retrieve e-mailmessages from their e-mail inbox. The primary reason for this is thatauthoring messages requires a convenient method of alphanumeric dataentry. Users are hesitant or reluctant to enter a message if the dataentry process is slow and difficult. This is a problem that conventionaldevices cannot properly address due to user interface limitations, i.e.,the capabilities, design, and layout of the physical devices. Whilee-mail may require entry of a moderate length message in response to areceived message, such data entry usually happens at a time the userdeems appropriate and convenient, not at a time dictated by the senderof the message. This is very much like the user being able toperiodically check voice messages in a voice mailbox, and respond at theuser's convenience.

However, IM and other types of instantaneous textual and graphicalcommunication are more real-time and intrusive than e-mail; the same waythat an incoming phone call is more real-time and intrusive thanchecking voice messages. IM is a much more frequently accessed and usedsystem than an e-mail client; therefore, IM requires a network anddevice that are much more convenient to use than an e-mail client. Sucha level of convenience has been possible with wired connections anddesktop computers. With traditional desktop computers, the computer isplaced on or near the work surface and the display and keyboard areeasily accessible. The user can immediately see incoming IM messagespresented on the display, then respond to the IM messages using thekeyboard. The user does not have to remove a device from the user's beltclip or pocket and open the device to see the IM message. Neither doesthe user have to then locate a work surface for support and connect aperipheral keyboard in order to compose a response.

There are a variety of devices available that are capable of providingwireless access to textual information, such as mobile phones, personaldigital assistants (PDA's), hand-held computers, and two-way pagers, butthe compromises in all of these designs limit their suitability as IMdevices. For some of these devices, the displays are always visible andeasy to see, but the device lacks an input device, has a small andinappropriate input device, has a slow and error prone method of dataentry, or requires additional peripheral devices and a work surface forsupport. For other devices, a suitable input device is present, but thedevice transforms between multiple states which prevent the display frombeing seen in one of the states, limiting the convenience of using thedevice on a frequent basis.

Conventional wireless communication devices can be categorized intoseveral distinct configurations: (1) mobile phones, commonly known ascellular phones; (2) personal digital assistants, commonly referred toas PDA's; (3) hand-held computers, commonly referred to as palmtopcomputers; and (4) two-way pagers.

The configuration of a mobile phone typically consists of: (1) a smalldisplay that is always visible; (2) a keypad for numeric data entry; and(3) an internal communication module that can transmit and receiveanalog and/or digitized voice data.

The mobile phone configuration has the following disadvantages: (1) thedisplay is typically very small and inappropriate for display of largeamounts of textual data, i.e., they are typically proportioned for oneor two rows of phone numbers and proper names, not textual data in thestructure of a written sentence; (2) the keypad is commonly locatedadjacent to the display, increasing the overall size of the unit; (3) onsome units, the device has a clamshell design that obscures both thekeypad and display when closed; (4) the keypad is typically atwelve-digit keypad designed for numeric data entry, although thekeyboard usually supports alphanumeric character entry for the purposeof entering proper names into an address book maintained in the phone'smemory, whereby the commonly used method of accessing alphanumericcharacters is to switch the device into a text entry mode, then press akey repeatedly to access a particular one of a subset of charactersavailable for each key, this method being extremely slow, awkward, errorprone, and not appropriate for a device intended to transfer textualdata on a regular basis; and (5) the communication module is typicallyengineered to support voice communication, and in only the latest deviceversions, limited retrieval of alphanumeric data.

The configuration of a PDA typically consists of: (1) a large displaythat is always visible; (2) a touch screen and stylus for data entry;(3) no keyboard for data entry; and (4) no internal communicationmodule.

The PDA configuration has the following disadvantages: (1) the devicehas no keyboard, so alphanumeric data entry is usually performed in oneof two ways: (a) the user taps with a hand-held stylus on a “soft”keyboard that is drawn on the display, or (b) the user writes on screenwith a hand-held stylus and the processor converts the user's writinginto text data; (2) an optional detachable keyboard may be available,but the keyboard usually requires a flat surface for support during useas it is tethered to the device by a cable or attaches in such a waythat it will easily become detached if tilted, thus making the keyboardextremely awkward for use in one hand while on the move; and (5) thedevice lacks a communication module, although modules may sometimes beadded, but at the expense of consuming the port available for connectingthe optional keyboard to.

The configuration of a palmtop computer typically consists of: (1) alarge display screen; (2) a complete keyboard; (3) a clamshell designwhere the display closes over the keyboard, or a flat layout where thedisplay is located adjacent to the display; and (4) no internalcommunication module.

The palmtop configuration has the following disadvantages: (1) althoughthe clamshell design affords protection to the display and keyboard whenthe device is closed, the clamshell design often renders the displaynon-visible when the device is closed, and is not adequate for frequentpresentation of information to a user on the move; and (2) therelatively large size makes the device prohibitive for use as an IMdevice, because when a large display and keyboard are present, thedevice becomes inconvenient for the user to carry on a regular basis,resulting in the usability of the display and keyboard being greatlyreduced.

The configuration of a two-way pager typically consists of: (1) a smalldisplay screen; (2) a small, complete keyboard; and (3) a flat layoutwhere the keyboard is located adjacent to the display, or clamshelldesign where the display folds over the keyboard when closed.

The two-way pager configuration has the following disadvantages: (1)units with a flat layout have displays that are always visible, but tokeep the overall device size down, the display and keyboard are reducedto minuscule dimensions which greatly reduces their usability; and (2)units with a clamshell design, render the display non-visible when theunit is closed, adding inconvenience when the user must look at thedisplay.

The distinction between each category of devices is blurring daily, buta trend is very evident in all the previously mentioned devices. Thedevices are either: (1) designed primarily for voice communication andhave limited alphanumeric entry capability, or a capability that is notsuited to use in your hands while on the move; or (2) designed primarilyfor occasional retrieval and display of textual information and have adesign that is very inconvenient for frequent input and viewing of datawhile on the move.

Some of these concepts are embodied in the following U.S. patents: U.S.Design Pat. No. Des. 416,256 issued to Griffin et al. which discloses ahand-held messaging device with keyboard; U.S. Pat. No. 5,548,478 issuedto Kumar et al. which discloses a portable computing device having anadjustable hinge; U.S. Pat. No. 5,638,257 issued to Kumar et al. whichdiscloses a combination keyboard and cover for a hand-held computer.U.S. Pat. No. 5,712,760 issued to Coulon et al. which discloses acompact foldable keyboard; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,949,408 issued to Kang etal. which discloses a dual orientation display hand-held computer. Thesedevices either have fixed keyboards or use folding clamshell designs. Assuch, they are not good choices for IM and other types of instantaneoustextual and graphical communication.

Although the devices, designs, and physical configurations discussedabove represent great strides in the area of physical configuration ofhand-held communication devices, many shortcomings remain.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is a need for a hand-held, electronic, bi-directional, wirelesscommunication device that 1) contains a relatively large, constantlyvisible display capable of rich presentation of information, 2) thatcontains an alphanumeric keyboard that is usable by human hands and 3)that is small enough to carry and convenient enough to use under usageconditions typically encountered with a mobile phone device.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide ahand-held, electronic, bi-directional, wireless communication devicehaving a physical configuration which includes a relatively large,constantly visible display and an alphanumeric keyboard that can beconcealed until needed.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a hand-held,electronic, bi-directional, wireless communication device having aphysical configuration which includes a body portion, a display portionthat translates relative to the body portion, a relatively large,constantly visible display carried by the display portion, and analphanumeric keyboard carried by the body portion, the alphanumerickeyboard being concealed by the display portion when not in use.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a hand-held,electronic, bi-directional, wireless electronic communication devicehaving a physical configuration which includes a body portion, a displayportion that pivots relative to the body portion, a relatively large,constantly visible display carried by the display portion, and analphanumeric keyboard carried by the body portion, the alphanumerickeyboard being concealed by the display portion when not in use.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a hand-held,electronic, bi-directional, wireless communication device having aphysical configuration which includes a body portion, a display portioncoupled to the body portion, a relatively large, constantly visibledisplay carried by the display portion, and an alphanumeric keyboardthat translates into the interior of the body portion when not in use.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a hand-held,electronic, bi-directional, wireless communication device having aphysical configuration which includes a body portion, a display portioncoupled to the body portion, a relatively large, constantly visibledisplay carried by the display portion, and a two-piece alphanumerickeyboard that translates into the interior of the body portion when notin use.

These objects are achieved by providing a hand-held, electronic,bi-directional, wireless communication device having a physicalconfiguration which includes a relatively large, constantly visibledisplay and an alphanumeric keyboard that can be concealed until needed.The communication device of the present invention has a physicalconfiguration operable between an “open” state in which the alphanumerickeyboard is visible, and a “closed” state in which the alphanumerickeyboard is concealed. This allows the information presented by thecommunication device to be viewable in either the open or closed state.A user can quickly and easily transform the device from the closed stateto the open state with either one or two hands, while viewing theconstantly visible display without interruption. The display is largerthan those used on mobile phones and can display text and graphics at aconvenient size and resolution. The alphanumeric keyboard is easier andfaster to use and learn than the keypads and touch screens on mostmobile phones and personal digital assistants. The keyboard may be akeyboard with a layout such as the common “QWERTY” layout, but need notbe limited to this particular layout. Other layouts may include the“FITALY” layout, the “Dvorak” layout or any other alphanumeric layoutthat includes a substantially full set of alphanumeric keys.

The present invention has many advantages over existing deviceconfigurations. Because the display is constantly visible, the user canimmediately see incoming messages or communications and respondappropriately. The display is relatively large to accommodate longtextual messages, graphical communications, or a combination of both.The user can quickly and easily transform the device from the closedstate to the open state without his view of the display beinginterrupted. The full alphanumeric keyboard allows the user to quicklyand easily transmit messages and other textual and graphicalcommunications in a complete and intuitive manner without having toattach peripheral devices. The unique physical configuration of thepresent invention is not only effortless to learn and use, it encouragesusers to participate in these new forms of communication.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a simplified representation of thehand-held, electronic communication device having a physicalconfiguration according to the present invention.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1A depicting how aconstantly visible display translates relative to a body portion toexpose a keyboard or other data input device that is carried by a bodyportion.

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1A with theconstantly visible display in a position which fully reveals thekeyboard or data input device.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an alternate simplified representationof a hand-held, electronic communication device having a physicalconfiguration according to the present invention.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 2A depicting how aconstantly visible display pivots relative to a body portion to reveal akeyboard or other data input device.

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 2A depicting how theconstantly visible display further pivots relative to the body portionto reveal the keyboard or other data input device.

FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 2A with theconstantly visible display pivoted to fully reveal the keyboard or otherinput device.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an alternate simplified representationof a hand-held, electronic communication device having a physicalconfiguration according to the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 3A depicting how akeyboard or other data input device extends outward from the interior ofa body portion.

FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 3A with the keyboardor other data input device in a fully extended position.

FIG. 4A is a front view of a hand-held, electronic, bi-directionalwireless communication device having a physical configuration of thetype illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C in a closed state.

FIG. 4B is a rear view of the device of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is a right side view of the device of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4D is a bottom view of the device of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4E is a front view of the device of FIG. 4A in an open state inwhich a constantly visible display is translated relative to a bodyportion to fully reveal a keyboard or other input device.

FIG. 4F is a rear view of the device of FIG. 4A while in the open stateof FIG. 4E.

FIG. 5A is a front view of an alternate hand-held, electronic,bi-directional wireless communication device having a physicalconfiguration of the type illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C in a closed state.

FIG. 5B is a rear view of the device of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is a right side view of the device of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5D is a front view of the device of FIG. 5A in an open state inwhich a constantly visible display is translated relative to a bodyportion to fully reveal a keyboard or other input device.

FIG. 6A is a front view of a hand-held, electronic, bi-directionalwireless communication device having a clamshell-type physicalconfiguration in which a keyboard or other input device hingedly pivotsrelative to a constantly visible display.

FIG. 6B is a right side view of the device of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is a front view of the device of FIG. 6A with the keyboard orother input device fully pivoted relative to the constantly visibledisplay fully reveal the keyboard or other input device.

FIG. 7A is a front view of a hand-held, electronic, bi-directionalwireless communication device having a physical configuration of thetype illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C.

FIG. 7B is a rear view of the device of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is a right side view of the device of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7D is a front view of the device of FIG. 7A with a two-piecekeyboard fully extended outward from the interior of a body portion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2D, and 3A-3C in the drawings,simplified representations of a hand-held, electronic communicationdevice having a physical configuration according to the presentinvention are illustrated. To be convenient for IM and otherinstantaneous textual and graphical communications, a device must beable to support effortless reading of incoming IM messages and rapidentry of responses. Such support minimizes the inconvenience of theintrusion of the IM message. The device should allow a minimum amount ofeffort to perform the tasks involved when using IM.

The device configuration of the present invention provides the followingunique and distinct features:

1. A relatively large display screen capable of displaying textual andgraphical information, allowing for a rich presentation of information;

2. A display screen that is always visible. If, for example, the devicemust transition from a closed state that is characterized by maximumportability to an open state that is characterized by maximum usability,the display is constantly visible in each state. Users are veryintolerant of a device that must be manipulated and opened in order toview the display each and every time a message or notification occurs;

3. An alphanumeric data entry means that is suitable for use with humanhands without the aid of an additional pointing device such as a stylusand that is designed for rapid entry of alphanumeric data; and

4. A relatively small size which makes the device convenient forportable use and allows the device to be operated, ideally, with one ortwo hands.

To ensure that the device of the present invention is appropriate formobile use, the device is small and convenient to carry and use. Thedevice is capable of being configured in at least two distinct statesthat maximize both its portability and usability. One device statemaintains a small footprint, whereby the device consumes a minimalamount of volume and affords a greater level of portability andconcealment, herein called the “closed” state. In this closed state, thedisplay is visible, but the keyboard is concealed to minimize space andmaximize portability. A second device state affords a more efficientlevel of alphanumeric data entry, herein called the “open” state. In theopen state, the display is visible and the keyboard is accessible tomaximize usability. The device can transition from the open state to theclosed state easily and with a minimum of effort, preferably with onehand. Preferably, the display translates relative to the main housing toreveal the keyboard. However, the display may either pivot or rotaterelative to the housing to reveal the keyboard, or the keyboard maytelescope into the interior of the housing. In the preferred embodiment,the device's display remains visible in either state, allowing the userto observe incoming messages without having to manipulate the device totransition it from one state to another, such as from closed to open.

In order to overcome the limitations of current hand-held, electronicdevices that serve or can be adapted to the purpose of bi-directional,wireless communication of textual and graphical information, the presentinvention provides a new and improved configuration of a device thatallows for the inclusion in the device of both a large, always visibledisplay screen and an alphanumeric data input device that allows rapidand comfortable entry of alphanumeric data. The device of the presentinvention preferably has a large, color display screen capable ofdisplaying textual and graphical information for rich presentation ofinformation. Because the display screen is always visible and henceexposed and susceptible to damage, a cover made of either a rigid orflaccid material to afford protection may protect the display. The covermay be of a material such as a clear plastic or rubber that allows thedisplay to remain visible even when covered. Further, the device of thepresent invention has an alphanumeric data input device that allowsrapid and comfortable entry of alphanumeric data. The present inventionprovides a configuration such that the device can be held and operatedwith one or two hands in a convenient and comfortable manner under usageconditions typically encountered with a mobile phone device.

The device of the present invention comprises at least the followingcomponents: (1) an alphanumeric data input device, such as a fullQWERTY-type keyboard or thumbboard; (2) a display device, such as anLCD, LED, or LEP display screen; (3) a processor; (4) a power source,such as a battery or mechanical generator like a wind-up springmechanism; (5) a communication module, such as a CDPD, CDMA, GSM or GPRSradio capable of wireless data transmission and reception; and (6) aphysical housing that contains these components and that consists of atleast two discrete portions that may translate, rotate and/or pivotrelative to one another, one portion containing a display device and oneportion containing a keyboard.

The display, preferably color, is always visible as the devicetransitions from a closed state characterized by maximum portability toan open state characterized by maximum usability. The display maytranslate, rotate, or revolve relative to the main housing of thedevice. The display will be large enough to accommodate simultaneoustextual messages, graphical displays, and graphical animations. Thedevice and corresponding wireless network include integral support of IMand other instantaneous textual and graphical communication. Theexterior layout of the device is heavily influenced by the capability toeffectively utilize these types of instantaneous communication.

Although the device may be placed in an “off” state in which no power issupplied to the device, it is preferred that the device remain either inan “on” state in which the device has full functionality, or a “sleep”state in which the device may appear to the user to be off, but is, infact, performing certain background functions. In the fully functional“on” state, the device is displaying digital content and the user isinteracting with the device. In the “sleep” state, the user is notinteracting with the device and the display screen on the device hascycled down and is not actively displaying digital content. In the sleepstate, the display screen may be blank or may be displaying apreprogrammed graphic or image. If the device is in the sleep state andthe user begins to interact with the device, or if the user receives a“hot” communication, the device immediately switches from the sleepstate to the on state so that the user may fully utilize all featuresand functionality of the device.

The device may include a variety of additional input/output components,such as lights, LED's, buttons, joysticks, a touch pad, an analogresponder, and others components which allow the user to viewinformation and manipulate the device to a certain degree withouttransitioning the device to the open state.

A first device configuration is specifically depicted in FIGS. 1A-1C. Aconstantly visible display 501 translates relative to a body portion 503to reveal a full QWERTY-type keyboard or other input device 505. Thisfirst device configuration includes the following features: (1) thedisplay remains visible when the device is in either the open or closedstate; (2) in the closed state, the display remains visible, butobscures the full keyboard or other input device; (3) the display isgenerally parallel with the keyboard or other input device andtranslates relative to the body portion such that the keyboard or otherinput device is revealed when the device is transitioned from the closedstate to the open state; and (4) when transitioning from the closedstate to the open state, the display translates in a plane that isgenerally parallel to the plane of the keyboard or other input device.

A second device configuration is specifically depicted in FIGS. 2A-2D. Aconstantly visible display 507 pivots relative to a body portion 509 toreveal a full QWERTY-type keyboard or other input device 511. Thissecond device configuration includes the following features: (1) thedisplay remains visible when the device is in either the open or closedstate; (2) in the closed state, the display remains visible, butobscures the input device; (3) the input device is movable such that itis revealed from below the display when the device is transitioned fromthe closed state to the open state; and (4) when transitioning from theclosed state to the open state, the input device moves in one or acombination of a sliding, hinging, or pivoting movements.

A third device configuration is specifically depicted in FIGS. 3A-3C. Aninput device 513 translates into a body portion 515 which carries analways visible display 517. This third device configuration includes thefollowing features: (1) the display remains visible when the device isin either the open or closed state; (2) in the closed state, thekeyboard display remains visible, but obscures the input device; (3) theinput device is movable such that it is revealed from below the displaywhen the device is transitioned from the closed state to the open state;and (4) when transitioning from the closed state to the open state, theinput device moves in one or a combination of a sliding, hinging, orpivoting movements.

Regardless of the configuration chosen, the device is a hand-held devicethat can be held by one or two hands and conveniently carried or worn bythe user on his or her person. The device is operated in a convenientand comfortable manner under usage conditions typically encountered witha mobile phone device.

The preferred configuration of a device 601 according to the presentinvention is illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4F. The physical configuration ofdevice 601 corresponds to the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C.In FIGS. 4A-4D, device 601 is shown in the closed state in which analways visible display portion 603 conceals a novel QWERTY-typethumbboard 605 that is carried by a body portion 607. In FIGS. 4E and4F, device 601 is shown in an open state in which display portion 603has been translated relative to body portion 607 to reveal thumbboard605. As is best seen in FIG. 4F, display portion 603 may include aplurality of rigid support rails 611 that telescope into body portion607 to provide additional support of display portion 603 while device601 is in the open state. It should be understood that other supportmeans, such as interlocking grooves on display portion 603 and bodyportion 607 may also be used to provide additional support for displayportion 603. Display portion 603 is dimensioned to house a plurality ofcomponents (not shown). Such components may or may not be directlyrelated to the display of images, such as a GPS antenna and integratedcircuit boards. Likewise, body portion 607 is dimensioned to house aplurality of electronic components and systems and necessary integratedcircuit boards, such as the microprocessor (not shown) and cache memory(not shown).

Display portion 603 includes a display screen 615. Display screen 615 ispreferably a high-resolution, 16-bit color, reflective LCD screen being320×240 pixels having a diagonal display area of about 3.8 inches. Itshould be understood that other comparable display screens may be used.Although always visible, display screen 615 will cycle down to a “powersave” mode during periods of non-use to conserve power. A cover or shade(not shown) may be utilized to protect display screen 615 from damage,to enhance visibility, to prevent glare, or to alleviate or minimizeother common problems associated with such display screens. In thepreferred embodiment, display screen 615 is covered by a protectivebezel (not shown).

Device 601 is powered by a portable power supply (not shown), such asbatteries. In this regard, a power supply cover 613 is provided to coverand protect the portable power supply. In the preferred embodiment, theportable power supply is rechargeable by placing device 601 in a dockingstation or charging station (not shown). Although device 601 operates onDC current, device 601 may be plugged into and powered by a conventional110-Volt wall outlet (not shown) with the use of a conventionallyfunctioning AC to DC power transformer (not shown).

A plurality of push pads 617 are located at selected locations ondisplay portion 603. Push pads 617 are preferably located such that theuser may translate display portion 603 relative to body portion 607 bypushing on push pads 617 with his thumb or thumbs. In the preferredembodiment, display portion 603 is preferably made of rigid, moldedplastic or similar material. Body portion 607 is preferably made of asimilar material. As has become popular in recent years, display portion603 and/or body portion 607 may be partially transparent or translucent,having a colored tint. A plurality of protective bumpers 619, preferablymade of rubber or rubberized plastic, are coupled to display portion 603and body portion 607 at selected locations. A plurality of raised grips621 may be integrated into protective bumpers 619 to facilitate handlingof and interaction with device 601. Device 601 may be of modularconstruction so that a plurality of the external components may bequickly and easily interchanged. Such interchangeability allows the userto choose from a wide variety of exterior styles and designs, therebycustomizing device 601 to the user's particular tastes. In this manner,the appearance of device 601 can be modified to suit the user's everchanging moods and attitudes.

Device 601 includes a plurality of input/output devices, such as LED's623, at least one speaker 625, a plurality of joysticks 627, conductivepower terminals 629 for attachment to the docking station, an infrared(IR) port 631 for the transfer of data, a DC adapter port 633 forattachment of the power transformer, a headphone jack 635 for use withheadphone speakers, an on-off switch 637 for toggling device between an“on” state, an “off” state, and/or a “standby” state, as furtherexplained herein, and an analog responder 639. It will be appreciatedthat LED's 623, joysticks 627, and on-off switch 637 may bemulti-functional. For instance, LED's 623 are preferably full-spectrumcolor LED's that can be selectively programmed by the user to displayselected colors at selected intensities and/or selected flashfrequencies in response to certain conditions. LED's 623 areparticularly useful when display screen 615 has cycled down into thepower save mode. This allows the user to interact with device 601without transitioning device into the open state. By using only LED's623, speaker 625, joysticks 627, IR port 631, and analog responder 639,a user can perform a considerable amount of input/output withouttransitioning device 601 into the open state.

Analog responder 639 is a one-dimensional, electronic touch pad disposedwithin device 601. Analog responder 639 is activated by the usertouching selected areas of device 601. Preferably, analog responder 639is disposed within and centrally located along a lower edge of bodyportion 607 closest to the user. Such location allows analog responder639 to be usable when device 601 is either in the closed state or theopen state, i.e., when display portion 603 is translated relative tobody portion 607. It is preferred that analog responder 639 be adjacentor in close proximity to display screen 615, because analog responder639 functions primarily to manipulate a cursor or graphical images beingdisplayed on display screen 615. The one-dimensional functionalboundaries of analog responder 639 are preferably indicated by raisedend ridges 641 or similar visual indicia. For example, one boundary maybe indicated by a “−” sign and the opposing end boundary may beindicated by a “+” sign. Such indicia are particularly useful because aprimary function of analog responder 639 is to allow the user toselectively input a response to a query from an analog range of possibleresponses. Using the current example, the end boundary indicated by the“−” might represent a negative response by the user to a query, such as“I do not like pizza;” whereas the end boundary indicated by the “+”might represent a positive response by the user to the same query, suchas “I love pizza.” In a similar fashion, analog responder 639 isvisually segmented, preferably by raised intermediate ridges 643, orsimilar visual indicia placed incrementally along the length of analogresponder 639 between end ridges 641. In the preferred embodiment,intermediate ridges 643 are more pronounced at the center 645 of analogresponder 639 and decrease in size or shape, if applicable, toward endridges 641. This allows the user to quickly determine which portion ofanalog responder 639 the user is touching, tapping, or depressing.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5D in the drawings, an alternate embodiment ofthe device of the present invention is illustrated. As with device 601,a device 701 has an always visible display portion 703 and a bodyportion 707. The physical configuration of device 701 corresponds to theconfiguration illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C. Display portion 703 carries adisplay screen 715, similar in form and function to display screen 615.Display portion 703 translates relative to body portion 707 to reveal aQWERTY-type thumbboard 705 which is similar in form and function asthumbboard 605. As is shown, device 701 includes similar input/outputports and devices as device 601, such as LED's 723, at least one speaker725, a plurality of joysticks 727, and an analog responder 739. Inaddition, device 701 includes a conventional two-dimensional touch pad729 on the backside of device 701. Touch pad 729 is located such that itcan be utilized by the user while device 701 is in either the closedstate or the open state. Touch pad 729 may be programmed to map todisplay screen 715 in either an absolute mode or a relative mode.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A-6C in the drawings, another alternateembodiment of the device of the present invention is illustrated. Inthis embodiment, a device 801 has a clam-shell design. As withpreviously discussed embodiments, device 801 has an always visibledisplay portion 803 and a body portion 807 which carries a novelQWERTY-type thumbboard 805. In this embodiment, a screen display 815 ondisplay portion 803 and thumbboard 805 on body portion 807 both faceoutward and are on opposite sides of body portion 807 when device 801 isin the closed state. As device 801 transitions to the open state,display portion 803 hingedly pivots relative to body portion 807 asindicated by arrow 809 in FIG. 6B. In the open state, display screen 815is adjacent to and visible above thumbboard 805. As is shown, device 801includes similar input/output ports and devices as device 601, such asLED's 823, at least one speaker 825, a plurality of joysticks 827, andan analog responder 839.

Referring now to FIGS. 7A-7D in the drawings, another alternateembodiment of the device of the present invention is illustrated. Inthis embodiment, a device 901 has a telescoping design. The physicalconfiguration of device 901 corresponds to the configuration illustratedin FIGS. 3A-3C. As with previously discussed embodiments, device 901 hasan always visible display screen 915. Display screen 915 is carried by abody portion 907 into which a novel, two-piece QWERTY-type thumbboard905 a and 905 b telescopes into from opposing sides of body portion 907.As is shown, device 901 includes similar input/output ports and devicesas device 601, such as LED's 923, at least one speaker 925, a pluralityof joysticks 927, and an analog responder 939. Joysticks 923 are carriedon each piece of thumbboard 905 a and 905 b.

The device of the present invention has a configuration that has arelatively small overall size, but is optimized for textual and othernon-voice types of communication. With advancements in radio technology,it is possible to include voice communication capability withoutsignificantly increasing the overall size of the device. In accordancewith the preferred implementation of the present invention, a pluralityof alternative communication modes can be supported by the device andthe associated wireless network. Some communication modes can beconsidered to be “cold” forms of communication, while other modes ofcommunication may be considered to be “hot” modes of communication. Acold mode of communication has a high degree of delay or latencyassociated therewith. Conversely, a hot mode of communication is onewhich has a low degree of delay or latency associated therewith.Generally, hot modes of communication may be conducted in real time, orinstantaneously. Preferably, the alternative communication modes includean e-mail mode, an IM mode, a chat mode, a voice mode, and a video phonemode. The following is a description of the operation of the presentinvention to enable these various modes of communication as well as theescalation or de-escalation of modes of communication.

The e-mail mode of communication is one in which text messages are keyedin by one user and communicated in a text form over the wireless networkto a designated recipient. The e-mail mode of communication on thenetwork utilizes conventional e-mail formats and protocols. E-mailmessages may be accumulated and saved in an electronic in-box, wherebythe e-mail messages may be read at the leisure and convenience of therecipient.

The instant messaging mode of communication is one in which textmessages are keyed in by one user and delivered immediately to therecipient user if the recipient user's device is in an IM receipt mode.IM messages received while in the IM receipt mode subordinate othercontent on the recipient's device. Thus, IM is considered “hotter” thane-mail. It is desirable that the IM mode of communication on thewireless network utilizes conventional IM formats and protocols.

The chat mode of communication is one in which a plurality ofcommunicants have initiated a chat session in which text, graphical, orvoice synthesized messages are exchanged substantially concurrently in adialog fashion. Because the users in a chat session have affirmativelyestablished a desire to communicate with each other, chat is “hotter”than e-mail and IM. It is desired that the chat mode of communication onthe wireless network utilizes conventional chat formats and protocols.

The voice mode of communication is similar to a telephone conversation.The voice mode of communication is possible when a mobile phone isembedded in the device. Because the voice mode of communication isperformed concurrently between users in real time, it is “hotter” thane-mail, IM, or chat. It is desired that the voice mode of communicationon the wireless network utilizes conventional cellular or digital phoneformats and protocols.

The video-voice mode of communication is similar to a video phoneconversation. The video-voice mode of communication is possible when amobile video phone is embedded in the device. Because the video-voicemode of communication is performed concurrently between users in realtime, and involves current video, it is “hotter” than e-mail, IM, chat,or voice. It is desired that the video-voice mode of communication onthe wireless network utilizes conventional cellular or digital videophone formats and protocols.

In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, itis possible for communicants to move between modes of communication froma relatively “cold” mode of communication, such as IM, to a relatively“hot” mode of communication, such as a voice. If during an IM session,the communicants decide to “switch up” to the voice communication mode,they can simply input an appropriate command to their respectivedevices, and the wireless network will establish the voice connectionbetween the users.

Conversely, it is possible for communicants to de-escalate modes ofcommunication from a relatively “hot” to a relatively “cold” mode ofcommunication. This could be done in an effort to reduce airtime or toconserve network energy. For example, if two users are communicating toeach other in the voice mode and decide to “switch down” to a chat modewhich may burn less network energy, the users simply input anappropriate command to their respective devices, and the wirelessnetwork will disconnect the voice connection between the users andestablish a chat session between the users.

Although the invention has been described with reference to a particularembodiment, this description is not meant to be construed in a limitingsense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments as well asalternative embodiments of the invention will become apparent to personsskilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention.It is therefore contemplated that the appended claims will cover anysuch modifications or embodiments that fall within the scope of theinvention.

1-15. (canceled)
 16. A hand-held telecommunication device comprising: abody portion, wherein said body portion has at least one set of keys forentering numbers and alphabetic characters, wherein said at least oneset of keys are positioned in substantially a first plane; a displayportion postionable in at least two positions relative to said bodyportion; a transitioning mechanism rotatably connecting said bodyportion and said display portion, wherein the axis of rotation of saidtransitioning mechanism is substantially perpendicular to said firstplane; wherein said transitioning mechanism is attached to said displayportion so as to secure said display portion to said body portion insaid at least two positions, and wherein said at least two positionsinclude: a first position wherein said display portion covers from viewsaid at least one set of keys for entering numbers and alphabeticcharacters and is positioned so as to be substantially parallel to saidfirst plane; and a second position wherein said display portion uncoversfor view and operation of said at least one set of keys for enteringnumbers and alphabetic characters and said display portion is positionedso as to be substantially parallel to said first plane; and wherein saidhand-held telecommunication device is sized so that said at least oneset of keys for entering numbers and alphabetic characters can beoperated while said device is being supported in a user's hands.
 17. Thedevice according to claim 16, wherein said transitioning mechanism isfixedly attached to said display portion.
 18. The device according toclaim 16, wherein said transitioning mechanism is hingedly attached tosaid display portion.
 19. The device according to claim 16, wherein saidtransitioning mechanism is slidably attached to said display portion.20. The device according to claim 16, further comprising: additionalinput keys located on said body portion, wherein said additional keysare accessible by a user when said display portion is in either thefirst position or the second position.
 21. The device according to claim16, further comprising: additional input keys located on said displayportion.
 22. The device according to claim 16, wherein said at least oneset of keys is selected from the group of a Qwerty, a Fitaly, a Dvorakor a twelve-key keyboard.
 23. A hand-held telecommunication devicecomprising: a body portion, wherein said body portion has at least oneset of keys for entering numbers and alphabetic characters, wherein saidat least one set of keys are positioned in substantially a first plane;a display portion postionable in at least two positions relative to saidbody portion; a transitioning mechanism rotatably connecting said bodyportion and said display portion, wherein the axis of rotation of saidtransitioning mechanism is not parallel to said first plane; whereinsaid transitioning mechanism is attached to said display portion so asto secure said display portion to said body portion in said at least twopositions, and wherein said at least two positions include: a firstposition wherein said display portion covers from view said at least oneset of keys for entering numbers and alphabetic characters and ispositioned so as to be substantially parallel to said first plane; and asecond position wherein said display portion uncovers for view andoperation of said at least one set of keys for entering numbers andalphabetic characters and said display portion is positioned so as to besubstantially parallel to said first plane; and wherein said hand-heldtelecommunication device is sized so that said at least one set of keysfor entering numbers and alphabetic characters can be operated whilesaid device is being supported in a user's hands.
 24. The deviceaccording to claim 23 wherein said transitioning mechanism is fixedlyattached to said display portion.
 25. The device according to claim 23wherein said transitioning mechanism is hingedly attached to saiddisplay portion.
 26. The device according to claim 23 wherein saidtransitioning mechanism is slidably attached to said display portion.27. The device according to claim 23, wherein said at least one set ofkeys is selected from the group of a Qwerty, a Fitaly, a Dvorak or atwelve-key keyboard.
 28. The device according to claim 23, furthercomprising: additional input keys located on said body portion, whereinsaid additional keys are accessible by a user when said display portionis in either the first position or the second position.
 29. The deviceaccording to claim 23, further comprising: additional input keys locatedon said display portion.